This is the first course of the National Film Exhibitor Training Programme, which has been developed especially for independent cinemas, film festivals, mixed arts venues, film societies and arts development officers from all over the UK.
The course will be taught through a series of presentations from a wide range of specialists in the field, case studies, practical workshops and peer discussion. The course will comprise a choice of introductory and more advanced sessions, enabling participants to choose their route through the day according to their expertise, organisation and resources.
The day will also provide invaluable networking opportunities for independent exhibitors from across the UK.
About the course
Session 1
Introduction to programming and working with distributors
Workshop on how to implement a programming strategy and broaden the range of audiences attending your film screenings, while working with limited resources. The second half of the session will be a frank discussion with guest distributors about tips for developing a good working relationship and booking the right films for your venue, festival or film society.
Led by Catharine Des Forges, Director, ICO with guest speakers Hamish Moseley, Theatrical Sales Manager, Momentum and Gow Gibson, Commercial Sales Manager, Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures UK.
Suitable for those who have not attended an ICO course before from all types of organisations.
OR
Programming, distribution and audience development for digital screens
Panel on how to take advantage of HD to develop your programme and expand audiences. Participants will be encouraged to join in the discussion to share ideas and experiences.
Speakers will be Marc John, Head of Digital Development, Picturehouse and UK Business Development Manager, Doremi; Tony Jones, Cambridge Arts Picturehouse; Linda Pariser, Cinemas Director, Cornerhouse; Matt Smith, Sales Director, Lionsgate and Mark Cosgrove, Programmer, Watershed (Chair).
Essential for venues who are part of the Digital Screen Network.
The course has enabled me to think in a more audience-focused way about our programme.
ICO trainee 2006
Session 2
Addressing culturally diverse audiences
Panel and group discussion on how to develop a wider range of communities for your venue, festival or film society: responding to the needs and preferences of specific audiences, developing relationships with communities, marketing routes and specific viewing habits.
Speakers will be Karen Alexander, freelance programmer and writer and David Sin, Head of Content Development, BFI.
Suitable for all.
OR
Accessing the community
Hear from exhibitors and access specialists who have successfully opened up their screenings to audiences with disabilities: programming ideas, screening and auditorium considerations, dos and don’ts.
Speakers will be Dr Laurence Clark, Freelance Disability Equality Trainer / Consultant; Sally Griffith, Cinema Programmer, QUAD; Geraldine McNamara, Open the Door Training Manager, Shape Arts and Geraldine Walker, Education and Outreach Manager, Showroom (chair).
Suitable for all.
OR
Developing audiences through archive film
Following the success of ‘Bombs at Teatime’, the recent BFI Mediatheque tour which reached average audiences of 80 people, hear from exhibitors who have attracted audiences by screening archive film.
Speakers will be Martin Jennings-Wright, Manager Little Theatre Cinema, Sue Porter, Film Development Officer and Coordinator of Rural Touring in the East Midlands and Jay Arnold, Cultural Sector Development Manager, Screen Yorkshire (chair).
Suitable for all.
Session 3
Audience development case studies 1
Talks from two successful cinemas about establishing your identity within the community and building customer loyalty with limited resources.
Speakers will be Liz Leyshon, Manager, Strode Theatre and Bill Lawrence, Hebden Bridge Picturehouse and National Media Museum.
Suitable for one- or two-screen cinemas and arts centres, new and emerging film festivals and film societies.
OR
Audience development case studies 2
Two speakers from high profile venues will discuss building a brand, raising national and international profile and doing high quality work to develop audiences.
Speakers will be Lewis Biggs, Director, Liverpool Biennial and Jemima Pyne, Communications and Publishing Manager, Tate Liverpool.
Suitable for larger venues and festivals.
This project is funded by the Skillset Film Skills Fund, which is supported by the National Lottery through the UK Film Council and the film industry through the Skills Investment Fund.
Skillset is the Sector Skills Council for the Audio Visual Industries.
With thanks to the generous support of FACT (Foundation for Art and Creative Technology)